1972 Citroen SM vs. 1988 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1988 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Citroen SM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen SM would be higher. At 2,669 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Citroen SM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen SM (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM should accelerate faster than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen SM weights approximately 604 kg more than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Reliant Scimitar is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Citroen SM, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Citroen SM (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen SM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen SM | 1988 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | SM | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2669 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2140 mm |
